Raytheon has been selected as preferred bidder to supply identification friend and foe (IFF) for Matra BAe Dynamics Rapier Field Standard C short-range surface-to-air missile systems as part of the UK's Successor IFF (SIFF) programme.
SIFF is a multi-phase programme to fit Mark XII/Mode S compatible IFF equipment to all of the UK's air, land and sea systems.
The UK Ministry of Defence is dividing the procurement into three elements. The largest piece is for 30 platforms, for which one IFF supplier will be selected. In the second element, platform design authorities will select and subcontract a SIFF supplier. This applies only to six platforms: two versions of Rapier, the British Aerospace Sea Harrier, Panavia Tornado F3, Westland Sea King and Shorts High Velocity Missile (HVM).
In the final portion, affecting 12 platforms, equipment design authorities will be awarded contracts to integrate the winner of the principal SIFF competition.
Raytheon is to provide systems for Panavia Tornado F3 fighters and is one of two companies - with Marconi Avionics - bidding for the main SIFF contract. Announcement of a preferred bidder for the Sea Harrier is expected shortly and selection for the HVM in the early part of next year. The winner of the major SIFF contract is also expected early next year.
Source: Flight International
